Blackjack is a popular casino game that requires players to have a good understanding of its rules and strategies. One of the most challenging hands in the game is a ‘hard 16.’ In this article, we will take a closer look at what exactly is a hard 16 in blackjack and how you can play it effectively.
A hard hand in blackjack refers to any hand that does not contain an Ace or one that contains an Ace that can only be counted as one. For example, if you have a hand with a seven and a nine, it is considered a hard 16 because there are no Aces involved. The reason why this hand is so difficult to play is that it is too high to hit for fear of busting, yet too low to stand and hope for the dealer to bust.
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So what are your options when you have been dealt with a hard 16? Here are some of the most common strategies used by blackjack players worldwide:
1. Hit – This means asking the dealer for another card. However, hitting on hard 16 is not always recommended as there’s more than a 60% chance of going bust.
2. Stand – This means keeping your current hand value and hoping the dealer goes bust. In most cases, standing on hard 16 isn’t recommended either because the chance of winning against the dealer’s hand value is low.
3. Surrender – Some casinos allow you to surrender your hand before taking any further action if you don’t like your chances. It means forfeiting half of your initial bet but saves you from losing even more money.
4. Split – If you’re playing with two cards with equal values (like two eights), some casinos allow splitting them into two separate hands and then playing them separately.
5. Double Down – This option allows you to double your initial bet and take one additional card in hopes of improving your position against the dealer’s hand value.
Now that you know your options, you may be wondering what the best strategy is when dealing with a hard 16. The answer depends on the specific game rules, the number of decks being used, and the dealer’s upcard.
However, in general, the most recommended strategy is to hit when the dealer’s upcard is between 7 and Ace. If the dealer’s upcard is between two and six, it may be best to stand.
In conclusion, playing a hard 16 in blackjack can be tricky and requires careful consideration of your options. Although hitting may seem like a risky move, it can sometimes yield better results than standing. It ultimately boils down to understanding the game rules and using sound judgment when making decisions at each stage of play.
Remember that blackjack is a game of skill that requires practice and patience to master. By following these strategies and learning more about the game’s nuances, you can significantly improve your chances of winning against the house.
